Thiruvananthapuram, 10 August (H.S.):Schools functioning as relief camps in Pathanamthitta and Kottayam districts will remain closed on Monday as authorities continue precautionary measures following heavy rainfall and flooding in parts of Kerala.

In Pathanamthitta district, a holiday has been declared for nine schools in Thiruvalla taluk that are being used to accommodate people affected by the rains. The schools have, however, been permitted to conduct online classes to minimise disruption to students.

Educational institutions in Kuttanad taluk of Alappuzha district will also remain closed on Monday. The decision was taken after intense rainfall over the past few days caused flooding and waterlogging in several areas, particularly in the Upper Kuttanad region.

Authorities are closely monitoring water levels and local conditions as communities in low-lying areas continue to deal with the impact of the recent spell of heavy rain.

Meanwhile, restrictions imposed on tourist destinations in Wayanad have been lifted following an improvement in weather conditions. The decision came after the India Meteorological Department issued a Green Alert for the district for the period from August 10 to 13.

Restrictions on quarrying and machine-assisted earthmoving activities in Wayanad will, however, continue as a precautionary measure. Authorities have warned that violations could invite legal action under Sections 51 and 55 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

The weather department has also cautioned about squally conditions along and off the Kerala coast, with winds of 40 to 50 kmph and gusts reaching 60 kmph likely in coastal areas.

Although no district-level weather alerts are currently in force, authorities have advised the public to remain vigilant and follow official weather and disaster-management updates.

The precautionary measures continue as several parts of Kerala recover from flooding and other disruptions caused by the recent heavy rainfall.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman